Bushnell Tour v3 Rangefinder

April 9, 2014, 6:06 pm
Matt
In Accessories

These days, one of the most controversial discussions you can have on a golf course is regarding how to measure the distance you have left to the hole – rangefinder or GPS? There are countless products on the market featuring both methods, and the truth is that both can work nicely. Rangefinders are more desirable for getting the exact yardage to the flag because a GPS unit doesn’t know where the hole is located on a daily basis. On the other hand, GPS is easier for some people to use than a rangefinder, which can be tough for certain individuals to hold steady.

There isn’t a right answer in this debate. It comes down to personal preference, as either method can accomplish the goal of telling you how far you need to hit your shot. If you come down in the rangefinder camp, the Bushnell Tour v3 Rangefinder is one worthy of your consideration. Bushnell has long been one of the leaders in this market, and this model is just another example of the impressive products they can produce.

One of the long-standing issues with using a rangefinder for some people, is determining whether they have measured the distance to the flag, or some object beyond the green. Early models of golf rangefinders were more difficult to use, and would frequently measure things off in the distance – giving the golfer a false reading on how far to hit their shot. With the v3, Bushnell has introduced something they call JOLT technology. The idea is simple – when the golfer successfully ‘shoots’ the flag with the rangefinder, the unit will quickly vibrate to give them positive feedback that they measured the right target. With that confirmation, you can grab the right club and make your swing with confidence.

In terms of range, the Bushnell Tour v3 is capable of measuring much further than any golf shot you are going to hit. It is rated as being able to measure distances up to a whopping 1,000 yards, and to be able to measure the flag from 300+ yards away. It is accurate to within one yard, and provides 5x magnification when looking through the unit. Also, unlike some other rangefinder models on the market, the v3 is a convenient, small size which fits in the palm of your hand.

As an additional option, there is a version of the v3 offered with slope calculating capability. This technology helps you adjust for uphill or downhill shots by providing you with slope numbers along with the raw yardage. While those compensated distances can come in handy, some competitions have outlawed rangefinders with a slope feature, so you will want to make sure you don’t use one when it isn’t allowed (the same goes for basic rangefinders – always make sure they are being permitted in a tournament before you put it to use).

Regardless of how you measure distance, getting the right number is crucial to playing well and lowering your scores. For those partial to rangefinders as opposed to GPS, the Bushnell Tour v3 is certainly one to check out.